Memory Cafe reopens in Sherburn Old Girls School

Sherburn-in-Elmet’s popular Memory Cafe, which was forced to close during the first lockdown more than a year ago, has now re-opened following the easing of lockdown rules.
The Sherburn Visiting Scheme supporting seniors in pre covid times. Picture by Simon HulmeThe Sherburn Visiting Scheme supporting seniors in pre covid times. Picture by Simon Hulme
The Sherburn Visiting Scheme supporting seniors in pre covid times. Picture by Simon Hulme

Held on Monday afternoons at the Old Girls’ School community centre in Sherburn, the cafe provides much valued facilities and social contact for dementia sufferers and their carers, as well as people aged over 65 and younger people with exceptional needs.

Activities include armchair keep fit exercises and, once a month, an afternoon devoted to ‘Singing our Favourite Songs.’

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The cafe is among a range of services provided to older people living in Sherburn and surrounding villages by volunteers and staff from SVS, Sherburn Visiting Scheme Supporting Seniors.

“We’re delighted to be able to re-open the Memory Cafe after such a long closure,” says SVS chairman Ted Bellamy.

He added: “We’re hoping in the near future to bring back all our remaining services, which support lonely and isolated older people in Sherburn and nearby villages.”

Admission is free though donations are requested to cover the cost of the fitness sessions, refreshments and transport for those who require help getting to the venue.

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SVS volunteers have continued to deliver twice weekly Meals on Wheels to housebound residents throughout all lockdown periods and are hoping soon to restore their weekly lunch club, shopping trips and transport to medical appointments provided by volunteer drivers.

In line with the government’s coronavirus roadmap, The Old Girls School further opened its doors to exercise sessions and workshops last month.

“We are now looking forward to the next stage of the roadmap which fingers crossed will be June 21 when we are hoping to be able to organise some of our popular events,” said Community Centre manager Sarah Kay.

“Please keep an eye on our what’s on page of our website or our Facebook page to find out which sessions are returning when.

“We are following our Covid Risk Assessment.

“Thank you for your continued support during these difficult times.”

The Little Teapot Tearoom has also opened in line with government rules.